Special Events Stories & Photos

2012Miles for Mallory Raises Awareness, Funds and Support in Congress

Lois Piper, Mallory Hicks’ mom and a volunteer organizer of the 2nd Annual Miles for Mallory PHamily PHun Walk in Minneapolis, Minn., sent the below follow-up report about their day. As of October 19, their event had raised over $11,000 for pulmonary hypertension research and patient services.

On Saturday, October 20, we held the 2nd Annual Miles for Mallory PHamily PHun Walk in Minneapolis, Minn. Over 160 walkers turned out on a cool, foggy Minnesota fall morning at Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis. The walk is held in memory of Mallory Hicks, who lost her battle with PH a mere 3 1/2 months after her diagnosis. Her family and friends feel so strongly that early diagnosis can save lives, that they have committed themselves to raising awareness of PH.

We had a walk around the lake, followed by a spaghetti luncheon, where we presented the Proclamation signed by Governor Mark Dayton declaring that November 2012 is PH Awareness Month in Minnesota. We invited U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar to our event, but she is in the middle of a re-election campaign, and was unable to attend. She sent (a) letter promising her support in the U.S. Senate. Dr. Michael McGoon and his wife, Bonnie, were the recipients of this year's Proclamation. Dr. McGoon has been a tireless warrior against PH. He is the director of the Rochester Mayo PH Clinic.

It was a festive atmosphere as PH'ers and the larger community drew together and walked to raise awareness. It was a sight to see as we walked (160 strong) our brightly colored t-shirts with the Miles for Mallory logo apparent all along the lake shore. Everyone there said it was an inspiring event, and hope that we continue.

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